Final answer:
A HR professional can employ the RACI matrix to help clarify roles and responsibilities within a troubled product development team. Coupled with strong communication and negotiation skills, the use of this tool promotes accountability and smoother collaboration, thereby enhancing team function and conflict resolution.
Step-by-step explanation:
To address the issue of a new product development team having difficulty achieving smooth collaboration, a HR professional could utilize the RACI matrix. This tool is best suited for clarifying roles and responsibilities within a team or project, which seems to be the root of the problem described. The RACI matrix helps by defining who is Responsible, Accountable, Consulted, and Informed for each task or decision in a project. This clarification can reduce misunderstandings and interference in each other's work, and promote better communication and accountability among team members.
Effective negotiation skills, trust-building, and maintaining a positive attitude are also crucial in fostering a collaborative environment. Additionally, if conflicts arise, employing good communication practices, such as staying calm, using non-inflammatory language, and focusing on problem-solving rather than blaming, can help in resolving disputes amicably.
Ultimately, by professionalizing the approach through tools like the RACI matrix and enhancing interpersonal skills, HR professionals can help teams improve their working relationships, alignment on projects, and overall productivity.